The Importance of Cybersecurity in the Telecom Industry: Insights from MWC Shanghai 2024

The recent Middle East and Central Asia ICT Policy and Governance Forum held at MWC Shanghai 2024 shed light on the critical importance of mobile network security in the era of 5G and beyond. With the deployment of 5G technology and the announcement of 5G-Advanced (5G-A) by global vendors like Huawei, the telecom industry is at the forefront of digital innovation.

The forum, themed “Driving Policy and Innovation to Shape Our Digital Future,” brought together key stakeholders including senior officials from GSMA, regulatory authorities, operators, Huawei, and the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology. Discussions centered around industry policies, successful practices, and valuable insights on network security and key industry trends.

One of the key highlights of the forum was the emphasis on the GSMA’s Network Equipment Security Assurance Scheme (NESAS) and Mobile Cybersecurity Knowledge Base (MCKB). These initiatives aim to provide a universal industry standard for ensuring the security of network equipment and enhancing cybersecurity capabilities across the mobile ecosystem.

Mr. Jawad Abassi, Head of MENA at GSMA, stressed the importance of secure by design principles, 5G deployment models, and industry-wide security activities. The forum also underscored the need for collaboration among industry suppliers, regulators, and mobile network operators to drive digital innovation and address cybersecurity challenges.

Huawei, a leading player in the telecom industry, has been proactive in standardizing telecom cybersecurity. The company’s commitment to cybersecurity was evident through its successful NESAS evaluations for its 5G base station and core network. As countries like Saudi Arabia prioritize network investment to fuel their digital revolution, robust networks and stringent cybersecurity measures are crucial for a secure and sustainable digital economy.